Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken

The Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken is one of those meals that can turn a simple weeknight into something special. I remember the first time my friend introduced me to this dish; the aroma filled the kitchen, and I was instantly hooked. The creamy sauce, rich with the flavors of ginger and garam masala, was such a comforting treat. With the busy lives we lead, it’s a blessing to have a dish that comes together with so little fuss. Plus, the Instant Pot does all the heavy lifting, allowing me to focus on what really matters – enjoying the food and the company. So, whether it’s a casual dinner or a get-together, this dish never disappoints.

Ingredient List for Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Cooking is an art, and the ingredients are the colors we use to create our masterpiece. In this dish, each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor. The key players include chicken thighs, which lend their tenderness and absorb the spices beautifully, and the butter, which adds a rich creaminess that ties everything together.

• 14.5 ounce can fire-roasted crushed tomatoes (without chili peppers) – These tomatoes provide a sweet and smoky base for the sauce, enhancing the overall depth of flavor.
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (from about 1 1/4-inch piece) – The fresh zing of ginger brightens the dish and adds a warmth that’s hard to resist.
• 2 garlic cloves (minced; or 1 teaspoon garlic powder) – Garlic is a must-have ingredient that complements the spices beautifully.
• 1 teaspoon garam masala – This spice blend is the heart of Indian cooking and gives the dish its signature flavor.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (optional) – Salt enhances the flavors of all the other ingredients, making them pop.
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs (trimmed) – Thighs are juicy and tender, perfect for absorbing the rich sauce.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into cubes) – Butter adds richness and creaminess to the sauce, elevating the dish.
• ¼ cup heavy cream – This makes the sauce luxurious and velvety, a true indulgence.
• 2 cups fully cooked rice – Rice serves as the perfect canvas for the flavorful sauce, soaking it up beautifully.
• Fresh lime juice, chopped fresh cilantro, and/or naan bread, optional – These are great accompaniments that can add freshness and flavor to your meal.

Putting Together Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Cooking this Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken is a journey filled with wonderful aromas and comforting flavors. Let’s dive into the steps that will guide you to create this delectable dish.

1. Begin by stirring together the fire-roasted crushed tomatoes, ginger, garlic, garam masala, and salt (if using) in the Instant Pot. You want to create a nice, thick base for the sauce, so make sure everything is well combined.
2. Next, nestle the chicken thighs into the tomato mixture. Try to cover the chicken with the sauce as much as possible, which ensures that it stays moist and flavorful during cooking.
3. Lock the lid of the Instant Pot in place and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. While you wait, take a moment to enjoy the rich aroma wafting through your kitchen.
4. When the cooking time is complete, press “cancel” and allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes. After that, carefully quick-release any remaining pressure. This step is crucial as it helps to keep the chicken tender.
5. Once the pressure has released, open the lid and remove the cooked chicken from the pot. You can chop it with a pair of kitchen scissors or shred it using two forks. The chicken should be incredibly tender and easy to break apart.
6. Add in the butter and heavy cream, stirring them into the sauce until fully melted and combined. This creates that creamy texture that we love in butter chicken.
7. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and give it a gentle stir to coat the pieces in the luscious sauce.
8. To serve, dish out the rice onto plates and top with the creamy butter chicken. You can garnish with fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and serve with naan on the side if you like.
9. Enjoy your delicious homemade Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken with family and friends. This dish is perfect for sharing and will surely impress!

Customization Ideas

This Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken is versatile, and you can easily tailor it to your preferences. Here are some ideas to make it your own!

• Spice it up: If you love heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the sauce.
• Vegetarian option: Replace the chicken with chickpeas or paneer for a vegetarian version that’s just as delicious.
• Serving style: Try serving it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
• Herbs galore: Fresh herbs add a nice touch. Consider adding mint or additional cilantro for freshness.
• Cooking method: Instead of the Instant Pot, you can use a slow cooker. Just combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
• Make it creamy: For an extra indulgent version, add more heavy cream or coconut milk.
• Rice varieties: Experiment with different types of rice such as basmati, jasmine, or even quinoa for a unique twist.

Great Combinations for Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Serving the Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken is all about creating a complete meal that delights the senses. Here are some wonderful options to consider:

• Perfect pairings: Serve with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan to soak up the rich sauce.
• Salads: A fresh cucumber salad with yogurt dressing complements the spices beautifully.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. It’s sure to please everyone!
• Flavor boosters: Add a side of spiced lentils or a chickpea salad for a wholesome meal experience.
• Leftover magic: Any leftovers can be transformed into a delicious wrap with fresh greens and a drizzle of yogurt.
• Seasonal adjustments: During colder months, serve with roasted veggies on the side for a comforting meal.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken stands out as a delightful dish that combines convenience with rich flavors. It’s a perfect solution for busy nights when you crave something comforting yet impressive. I encourage you to give it a try; your taste buds will thank you!

Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken

The ultimate comfort food, Easy Instant Pot Butter Chicken is creamy, rich, and bursting with flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish combines tender chicken and spices in a luscious sauce that’ll make your taste buds dance. Make it tonight for a meal everyone will love!

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Indian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 14.5 ounce fire-roasted crushed tomatoes without chili peppers
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger from about 1 1/4-inch piece
• 2 cloves garlic minced; or 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt optional
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs trimmed
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into cubes
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• 2 cups fully cooked rice
• Fresh lime juice, chopped fresh cilantro, and/or naan bread optional

Equipment

• Instant Pot

Method

 

1. Stir together the fire-roasted crushed tomatoes, ginger, garlic, garam masala, and salt (if using) in the Instant Pot.
2. Nestle the chicken thighs into the tomato mixture. Lock the lid and set to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
3. When cooking is complete, press 'cancel' and let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure.
4. Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and chip with a pair of kitchen scissors, or shred with two forks.
5. Stir in the butter and cream. Return the chicken to the pot.
6. Serve over rice with plain yogurt, chopped or thinly sliced cucumbers, lime juice, cilantro, and/or naan bread as desired.

Notes

• If you don’t have or can’t find garam masala: you can use cumin. It will have a less distinctly Indian flavor, but it will still be good!
• To make this dairy-free: omit the butter and use full fat canned coconut milk in place of the cream.
• If you can only find diced fire-roasted tomatoes: you can puree the sauce smooth in Step 4 right before you add the chicken back in.
• Feel free to double the recipe: to make a larger portion (or to ensure leftovers!)
• Store any leftovers: in an airtight container and reheat to serve.

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Meet Jenna Miller

I’m the one who brought this group together. I’ve always believed that food tastes better when it’s shared, and I wanted to create a space that felt as warm and sunny as our home state. I’m usually the one writing our posts and helping Brooke develop our main course recipes. My favorite days are when we’re all in the kitchen together, music on, cooking up our next idea.